Strong Wind Cautions from the LAFD

Dear Friend of the LAFD:

With the arrival of strong winds in many parts of the Golden State, the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department remind California residents to use caution at home, in the workplace and on the road.

Today's strong wind conditions compound wildfire danger. We are therefore asking all residents, especially those in foothill and wildland communities to use extreme caution with all flame or spark producing equipment, including vehicles and power tools.

Those living in hazardous brush areas should remain vigilant, and report any local sign of fire and smoke immediately to 9-1-1.

Additional preparations, such as a fire safety survey of your property and a review of family emergency and evacuation plans can help remove the apprehension that many of us feel when strong winds begin to blow.

With the possibility of downed power lines causing localized power outages, motorists should use extreme caution when approaching darkened traffic signals. Whether driving on a main thoroughfare or a side street, motorists should treat all non-functioning traffic signals as a four way stop.

If you should encounter downed wires, always assume them to be energized and potentially lethal. Be careful that such wires haven't electrically charged puddles of water, chain link fences or other conductive sources.

And finally, we remind you to secure loose items around your home and be careful for toppling trees, wind-blown debris or high profile vehicles being buffeted by our seasonal winds.

If you get behind the wheel today, Los Angeles Firefighters remind you: 'Heads Up, Easy on the Throttle, and Expect the Unexpected!'

Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,

Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department

LAFD Home Page: http://www.lafd.org
LAFD News Blog: http://www.lafd.org/blog